The comments on Area 47 - Copper Mountain in Wyoming reveal a significant challenge with accessing public lands due to the surrounding private properties, which restrict entry to desirable hunting areas. While tools like onX maps show potential routes, hunters frequently find them obstructed or impractical. Despite this, some hunters suggest alternative access points on the unit's north and south sides, and discussions highlight the importance of consulting local resources like area biologists and game wardens for reliable guidance. For those considering this unit, detailed pre-trip research and possibly employing an outfitter may be necessary to navigate the access issues effectively, particularly for non-residents or first-time elk hunters.
| species | general Size | trophy potential |
|---|---|---|
| Elk | 260"-300" | 310"+ |
High
Low
This area is made up of high plains desert and the Copper Mountains. This unit is mostly private land where the elk occur and is bordered by U.S. Highway 20 on the west. There is an abundance of BLM in this unit and access might be a little tricky for some of it. Good bulls are taken from this unit every season.
The terrain in this area is moderate/rugged, with elk located mostly in the rugged and sparsely timbered Copper Mountains. The bigger elk typically come from the more rugged and remote locations of this area, or on the fringes of large ranches.
This unit spans from the Bighorn River to County Roads 7, 259 and 176. Elevations range from 4,300 feet at the Bighorn River in the northwest corner of the unit to Greer Peak at 7,700 feet. The terrain throughout the unit is gently contoured, changing to steep and rugged elevations around the Copper Mountains.
This hunt area is mostly private land where elk occur, mainly on Copper Mtn, but does support 2 HMAs and several WIAs that may occasionally have elk when the weather turns cold and snowy. When off the maintained roads, four-wheel drive or ATVs are recommended.
This area is high desert country with dry, mountainous terrain and scattered limber pine and juniper on rocky slopes. The stark ridges and draws stand in sharp contrast to the waters of nearby Boysen Reservoir.
Thermopolis is the nearest town to the unit and offers several options for lodging, groceries, gas, sporting goods and other amenities. Camping is allowed on all public ground for up to 16 days in one location. Hunters can also camp in remote locations.
Roughly 699 square miles
50% public Land
Elevations from 4,300–7,700 feet
Boysen State Park has public campgrounds